draconian

adjective

dra·​co·​ni·​an drā-ˈkō-nē-ən 

drə-

often capitalized

1

law : of, relating to, or characteristic of Draco or the severe code of laws held to have been framed by him

2

: cruel

also : severe

draconian littering fines

Did you know?

Draconian comes from Draco, the name of a 7th-century B.C. Athenian legislator who created a written code of law. Draco's code was intended to clarify existing laws, but its severity is what made it really memorable. According to the code, even minor offenses were punishable by death, and failure to pay one's debts could result in slavery. Draconian, as a result, became associated with especially authoritative actions that are viewed as cruel or harsh.

Examples of draconian in a Sentence

The editorial criticizes the draconian measures being taken to control the spread of the disease.

Recent Examples on the Web

There is bipartisan consensus, on the one hand, that draconian drug laws have been a travesty and, on the other, that the Constitution has nothing to say about them—even as high courts abroad have been leading the charge for drug liberalization. —David Pozen, TIME, 25 Apr. 2024

Xi’s draconian rule has persuaded even many CCP members that the system that produced China’s recent precipitous decline in prosperity, status, and individual happiness is one that deserves reexamination. —Matt Pottinger, Foreign Affairs, 10 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin Dracon-, Draco, from Greek Drakōn Draco (Athenian lawgiver)

First Known Use

1775, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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